Two given life sentences for raping an American woman

Two men men accused of raping an American woman jogger at Storms River this month have been given life imprisonment.

The accused appeared in the Storms River Magistrate’s Court on 24 June and both pleaded guilty. Accused one, Juame Thorne (26) was found guilty on two counts of rape and accused two, Luwayne De Wee (25) was found guilty on a charge of rape.

The 47 year-old woman , a teacher in Gauteng, was jogging at noon on 14 June in the Tsitsikamma area, Storms River, when she was approached by two unknown men who overpowered and raped her. Swift reaction by members from the SAP Storms River led to the arrest of the two suspects within hours after the rape was reported.

Humansdorp Cluster Commander, Brigadier Neil Jantjies applauded the SAPS members for the sterling work done and said: “This is the result of the hard work and commitment of dedicated investigation officers within specialized units. I also welcome this sentence, because the combating of crimes against women and children is a priority of the SAPS and such sentences will help deter people from committing such crimes”.